Imagine a life where your dad is absent, drunk, or gambling all the time, and your mom is in a mental health hospital, leaving you alone. This is the life that Sugar Mae Cole lives in the novel Almost Home, by Joan Bauer. Meet Sugar: a sweet and street-smart 12-year-old girl who is a writer, dog-walker, and trainer (of both dogs and people). After Sugar’s grandfather, King Cole dies, Sugar and her mom Reba move to Chicago for a fresh start. Reba is soon admitted to a mental health hospital, and Sugar has to move in with a super nice and welcoming foster family. The only thing that gives Sugar a break from her terrible and sad life is a dog named Shush. This novel is one of the best books I have ever read because of the creative plot, strong characters, and the happiness that comes after reading this book.
First, the plot was super creative and interesting. There was never a dull moment because of all the crazy twists and unexpected turns. My predictions kept being proven wrong, and the fast-paced exciting story kept me on the edge of my seat, while also feeling realistic. From the first letter that Sugar wrote on a page to the last, I was amazed by the innovative story arc.
Additionally, the characters in Almost Home are consistent and nuanced. For example, Sugar plays a happy, funny, and smart teenage girl on the outside, but on the inside, there is hurt, loss, and sadness. Using her quick wits and creativity in every scene, Sugar is super consistent and humorous.
Finally, although this novel was sad, some parts were heart-warming and made the reader feel good. The ending was the most unexpected ending there could have been, making the reader think about it for days later. The humor, forgiveness, and kindness that Sugar tosses around daily makes the reader laugh and grin. This thought-provoking novel will win readers' hearts from page one.
Overall, Bauer’s Almost Home is an amazing book: it has a fantastic plot, strong, nuanced characters, and a happy aura. The reader is always rooting for Sugar Mae Cole (and of course, Shush!) on their inspiring journey. I would 1000% recommend this novel to everyone, but especially heart-warming realistic fiction lovers. I would rate this book 6//5 if I could! If you pick it up, you will never be able to put it back down!
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